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Irresistible Marry Me Shrimps Recipe That Will Steal Your Heart

Irresistible Marry Me Shrimps Recipe That Will Steal Your Heart - Featured Image

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Learn how to make delicious Marry Me Shrimps Recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter (or a mix of both)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (substitute with 1/4 cup finely chopped onion if needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (for a non-alcoholic option)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter touch
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds a wonderful depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice, grits, or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps them sear nicely instead of steaming.
  2. Heat olive oil and/or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the fat is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl up. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Stir frequently and cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step always reminds me of Mama Lu’s kitchen — that smell is like a warm hug.
  4. Add the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices gently and release their flavor.
  5. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits. Let it simmer and reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. This reduction is where the magic really happens — the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.
  6. Slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, bringing the sauce back to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
  7. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. The cheese gives the sauce that luscious, velvety texture that feels like a warm Sunday supper.
  8. Add the lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  9. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through. Don’t overcook the shrimp here — Mama Lu always said, “Shrimp is like a good story; too long and it loses its charm.”
  10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving to brighten the dish.